Flights to the Cook Islands

Splitting the cost of your flight to the Cook Islands with Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) can make your trip more manageable financially. Unlike paying upfront, BNPL allows you to split the cost of your flight tickets into smaller, more budget-friendly instalments.

Many plans offer interest-free payments within a specific timeframe - this can ease budgeting and potentially save your money compared to traditional financing options! Enjoy a stress-free travel experience to the Cook Islands with over 40 ways to pay. We work with payment providers such as Affirm, Afterpay, Klarna, Clearpay and PayPal.

The Cook Islands are a chain of 15 islands scattered across the South Pacific Ocean. They are the definition of a tropical paradise, with many visitors flocking to its outstanding beaches, clear turquoise lagoons, refreshing rainforests and relaxing atmosphere every year. Rarotonga, the largest island, is the hub of the Cooks and is where most visitors arrive. Another popular island is Aitutaki, best known for its idyllic lagoon where swimming, snorkelling and kayaking spots are abundant. Whichever island you choose to visit, you won't be disappointed.

Book flights to the Cook Islands today with Alternative Airlines. With 600+ airlines available to book flights with and 40+ ways to pay, flights to the Cook Islands are readily available and easy to book on our platform. Take a look at the cities and towns you can fly to within the Cook Islands below.

Avarua is the compact capital of the Cook Islands, sitting on the northern coast of Rarotonga Island. It's a central hub for exploring Rarotonga and a great starting point for any Cook Islands adventures. Within Avarua lives the energetic Punanga Night Market, a must-do on a Tuesday night for any visitor passing through. Here you'll find a range of local crafts, including brightly coloured pareos (wraparound skirts), woven baskets and exquisite black pearl jewellery, unique to the islands.

If you have time on your travels, consider learning about the Maori culture at the Cook Islands Library and Museum, showcasing artefacts and exhibits around Polynesian traditions. Avarua is a popular place to stay if you're planning to discover Rarotonga's many idyllic beaches, with rentals for kayaks, paddleboards and snorkel gear readily available.

April through to November is the ideal time to visit Avarua - this is the dry season for the Cook Islands, allowing you to comfortably enjoy outdoor activities with warm temperatures and steady humidity levels. Rainfall is possible all year round, though on the Cooks, so make sure you pack appropriate clothing!

If you are searching for affordable flights to the Cook Islands, then Alternative Airlines is the place to be! We offer a variety of methods to make your money go further when you travel:

Payment plans

We are proud to partner with some payment providers which allow you to split the cost of your flights into more manageable payments. Whether you are flying economy on an ultra-low-cost carrier or first class with a premium airline, you can find a plan that suits your needs.

Flying with affordable airlines

Looking to snag a bargain to your favourite destination? The best place to start looking is to identify low-cost airlines that can get you there on the cheap. They will charge extra for baggage and other bonuses you would get for free with a full carrier, but if you are fine travelling light and basic, you'll save yourself a lot of money.

Cheapest day to fly

Knowing when to fly can also contribute to cheaper tickets. We have written a guide for you to be able to identify the right time for you, backed up by real data and expert sources. Read our blog for the trade secrets on the cheapest days to buy flights to find out more.

Best fare finder

Still bargain hunting? We've cooked up a secret weapon. Our best fare-finder tool allows you to easily and quickly compare all of the flight prices on the week surrounding your original search and find the most affordable flight.

• Understand the Currency and Cash Needs: The official currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). However, the Cook Islands also have their own unique coins and a distinctive $3 note. While credit and debit cards are widely accepted at resorts, rental agencies, and larger shops, it's essential to have cash on hand for local markets, smaller food stalls, and the public bus. Remember to spend your unique Cook Islands currency before you leave, as it's not accepted outside the islands. Tipping is not a customary practice, but it's always appreciated for exceptional service.
• Get Around Like a Local: On the main island of Rarotonga, you'll find a relaxed pace of life, which extends to transportation. The island has one main road that circles the perimeter, making it very easy to navigate. A popular way to get around is by renting a scooter, but if you don't have a motorcycle license from your home country, you'll need to obtain a local visitor's license from the police station. Alternatively, you can use the reliable and unique "Island Bus" which travels both clockwise and anti-clockwise around the island, and you can simply wave it down to catch a ride.
• Pack Appropriately for a Tropical Climate: The Cook Islands have a tropical climate, so pack light, breathable clothing. However, a light jacket or sweater is a good idea for cooler evenings. It's also important to be mindful of local customs; while casual dress is common, it's respectful to dress more modestly, particularly when visiting villages or attending a church service. Don't forget to pack plenty of sunscreen, insect repellent, and a good hat, as the sun can be intense.
• Embrace the Unhurried Pace of "Island Time": The Cook Islands are all about relaxation and a slower way of life. Schedules can be more fluid, and things might not always run exactly on time. Embrace this laid-back attitude, or "Island Time." Don't rush, enjoy the moment, and be prepared to go with the flow. This mindset is key to fully appreciating the tranquil and welcoming atmosphere of the islands.